In this commentary, we will explore the significance of polarities and how we are challenged to work within these parameters of being.

As a fundamental to this process, we need to realise that whatever is being constellated at an unconscious level has a life and energy of its own, and therefore seeks expression in the outer world.  The complications arise when this unconscious material is either suppressed and/or distorted.  The psyche then attempts to sabotage or compensate…in order to pacify the super-ego and be accepted by others.  We then encounter what Carl Jung described as the ‘shadow’ and the process of self-awareness needs to be fully employed to realise one’s true potential.

In this quest for individuation, we are attracted (or sometimes repelled) by our significant others.  There is a natural inclination to merge and seek union with those we are able to identify with.  By the same token, there can be feelings of aversion and withdrawal as we encounter our polarities, and these qualities are embodied in those who teach us through differentiation rather than compliance.  These ‘mirrors of our shadow selves’ reflect our inner conflicts and enable us to grow through the process of integration.  In the reconciliation of opposites (polarities) we are able to experience this as a living, dynamic process rather than just an interesting theory.

It is often more acceptable to witness our less desirable qualities vicariously, but we still need to engage fully in the relationship…in order to feel and know the consequences of our actions on a karmic level.  For example, whether in the archetypal role of either ‘abuser’ or ‘victim’, both parties concerned have a responsibility in 1) perpetuating the abuse, and/or 2) allowing oneself to be victimised.  This does require the need to self-examine in order to recognise and acknowledge any misuse of power where there is a negative ‘investment’ in preserving the status quo.  This destructive dynamic is usually fuelled by fear of change which can only be addressed by total acceptance of the self in totality.

At this stage, we are then receptive to those aspects of the self which represent our inner teachers.  As our sense of self becomes more integrated and less fragmented, so we are better equipped to form healthy and fulfilling partnerships.  By living more consciously, we avoid collusion and therefore enable our relationships with others to be authentic.  This does represent an element of soul retrieval as we acknowledge and reclaim those aspects of the self which have been suppressed and/or projected onto others so the healing can occur spontaneously…and we are released into a unified consciousness that embraces our polarities of being.

Namaste